Beware of Scam Emails, Texts, and Calls Claiming to be from the ATO

At Winter & Co, your security is our priority. Recently, we’ve noticed an increase in scam emails, texts, and phone calls impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). These scams can look highly convincing, so it’s essential to stay vigilant and protect yourself from potential fraud.

Example Scam Email

Here are some images of a recent scam email (see below) that falsely claims to be from the ATO, asking for payment and personal information. Scams like this often contain subtle errors that you can spot, such as:

  • Spelling Mistakes: In the image, “ATO” is written as “AT0” (using a zero instead of the letter “O”).
  • Unusual Language: Scam emails might have poor grammar or awkward phrasing.
  • Generic Greetings: Messages often lack personal details or specific references.

Key Tips to Identify Scams

While scammers are getting better at making emails look legitimate, here are some tips to help identify a fraudulent message:

  1. Check for Spelling and Grammar Errors: Even a minor error, such as “AT0” instead of “ATO,” can indicate a scam.
  2. Look at the Sender’s Email Address: Scammers may use addresses that resemble legitimate ATO emails but contain small variations.
  3. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: If you’re asked to click a link to “complete payment” or provide personal details, be cautious.
  4. Do Not Use Links to Access MyGov: Instead of clicking any links claiming to take you to myGov, it’s best to log in directly and check for any notifications or updates there.

Unsure? Call Us First

If you’re uncertain whether a message is legitimate, reach out to us at Winter & Co. We can check your ATO portal on your behalf to see if there are any genuine notices or outstanding balances.

Important: If you’ve already provided personal or financial details to a suspected scam, contact the ATO directly as soon as possible to secure your account and prevent further issues.

Stay safe and remember that we’re here to support you.